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Testimony from the Monthly Meeting of Smithfield, concerning our
late deceased and well esteemed friend, Moses Aldrich, of Mendon.

He was born in the 4th month, 1690, and was convinced and made profession
of the truth amongst Friends, about the twenty-first year of his age; and
four or five years afterwards, he was let to engage in the service of the
ministry; in which work he was well approved. In the year 1722, he obtained
a certificate from Providence Monthly Meeting, recommending him to Friends
in the Island of Barbadoes. This Island he visited, laboring in the work
of the ministry; and returning, brought a certificate from Friends there,
expressive of their unity with his doctrine, consistency of life, and conversation.

In 1730, he in like manner visited and labored in the ministry, in most
of the provinces on this continent, as far south as Carolina, to the satisfaction
of Friends, bringing certificates to that effect.

In 1734, he again, with the concurrence of Friends, visited Barbadoes,
to the satisfaction of Friends there; -- and in 1739, having received certificates
of unity from the Monthly Meeting of Smithfield, of which he was then a
member, he crossed the Atlantic, and spent the most part of two years in
Great Britain and Ireland, in the service of Truth. These labors of love
appear to have been satisfactory to Friends there, from their returning
certificates, wherein they declare their unity with him in his doctrine,
life, and conversation. Divers letters were written by him during his absence,
to his wife, children, and friends, giving them tender counsel and advice.

He was a man of cheerful mind, pleasant conversation, and exemplary
life. He was endowed with a sound understanding as a man, and favored with
a large gift in the ministry. He often visited the Meetings of Friends
in several parts of New-England, and when at home, was constant in attending
the meetings to which he belonged, when of ability of body; often communicating
to us, to the confront and rejoicing of the strong, and to the encouragement
and strengthening of the disconsolate and weak ones, through the assistance
of that divine grace by which he was supported. Having occasion at one
time, to speak of his experience, he said it was about forty years since
he was convinced of, and embraced the Truth, and that he had been mercifully
preserved from stumbling at it; and we believe he was enabled so to continue
to the end. He retained his bodily powers until about a year before his
death, at which time they had in a measure decayed, so as to confine him
at home in the winter; yet in the summer he visited Rhode-Island, Nantucket,
and some other places. In the latter part of the 8th month, 1761, he was
taken sick, experiencing great pain of body, which he bore patiently, and
in resignation. His children showing themselves troubled with the apparent
near approach of his death, he said, "Mourn not for me, but mourn for yourselves;
it is well with me, and as well to depart now, as to live longer," or words
of this import. He tenderly counselled and advised them to live in love,
one with another; giving them to understand that thereby they would receive
strength. He appeared to retain his mental faculties until the last, and
departed this live on the 9th day of the 9th month, 1761, in the 71st year
of his age; and was interred in Friends' burying ground, in Mendon, on
the 11th.

Although we esteem his departure a great loss to us, yet we have good
cause to believe it to be his great gain.

Signed at a monthly meeting of Friends, held at Smithfield 30th of 12th
month, 1762, by
URIAH MOWRY,
THOMAS SMITH,
THOMAS LAPHAM,
JOSEPH BUFFUM,
MOSES FARNUM,
and 14 other Friends.

pg: 34 - 37

JEREMIAH AUSTIN

Testimony from the Monthly Meeting of Friends of Westport, in the
State of Massachusetts, concerning our beloved friend and Elder, Jeremiah
Austin, deceased.

He was the son of Robert and Hannah Austin, of Charlestown, in the State
of Rhode-Island, where he was born, the 24th of 3d month, 1730. His parents
being poor, he was at an early age hired out to labor for their support,
and was by that means not only deprived of the necessary benefit of schools,
but consequently, exposed to many temptations unto which his active mind
yielded, indulging in the amusements and follies incident to the young
and inconsiderate; for, in his youth, he was inclined to vanity and dissipation.
But being mercifully visited by Divine Grace immediately revealed in his
heart, he was enabled to see the deplorable state into which he had been
brought through sin. Great was the anguish and distress in which he was
involved, as some of us have heard him relate. But in process of time he
found relief to his distressed mind by being enabled to yield to the operations
of the Spirit of Truth, and to take up a resolution to forsake the evil
of his ways and to live a more circumspect life.

Soon after he attained the age of manhood, he became convinced of the
truth as professed by the Society of Friends, and was united in religious
fellowship with them in the Monthly Meeting of South-Kingstown, and being
concerned so to run that he might obtain the crown, he was preserved from
sitting down contented in an outward profession, and became engaged to
press forward to experience fellowship and communion with the Father and
Son, and continuing to grow in grace and in the saving knowledge of our
Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, the talents with which he was endowed became
sanctified, and he was qualified to fill, with dignity and propriety, the
stations assigned him in the church. He began with little of the things
of this world; but being diligent and industrious in providing for the
comfort and accommodation of a numerous family, as well as concerned for
truth's prosperity, he was blessed in his labors, so that he lived comfortably
and maintained his family respectably, supporting the character of an honest
and peaceable man, and was often instrumental in restoring peace among
his friends and neighbors, a service for which he was well qualified, his
judgment being sound and his manner mild and persuasive, which gave him
influence over the wayward and unruly dispositions of some minds, so that
they would listen to his admonitions and advice.

He gave evident proof that he was attentive both to his relative and
social duties, and while he was diligent in business, evinced a fervency
of spirit, serving the Lore, not suffering his temporal concerns to divert
his attention from the exemplary attendance of meetings, both for worship
and discipline; and he was also concerned to promote the attendance of
his family and helpful in getting them to meetings, from which he mostly
lived remote. He was zealously engaged for good order and comely behavior
in meetings, and that they be concluded in the most proper time; and in
meetings for discipline he became eminently useful, having been instructed
by the precepts of Christ, that "Whatsoever ye would that men should do
unto you, do ye even so to them."

His love to the young and rising generation was strong and ardent, and
he was often led into near sympathy with them in their various trials and
temptations, knowing, by his own experience, that they were greatly increased
upon them by their being entangled with the spirit of the world. His meekness
and love gave him great place in their minds; and we trust his exemplary
life and pious admonitions will prove to some of the present age like bread
cast upon the waters, which may be seen after many days.

His obedience to the truth deeply fixed upon his mind the immutable
principles of justice; and he was early concerned to support our testimony
against the holding of our fellow men in a state of slavery; in which his
zealous labors among his friends were blessed in several instances, and
his precepts were enforced by his own example; for his wife having by legacy
a female slave, left to her by her father, she was immediately manumitted.
He was indeed concerned faithfully to maintain our religious testimony
in all its branches, and with christian patience suffered much loss of
goods in support of that against war.

He continued a member of South-Kingstown Monthly Meeting until about
the year 1766, when he removed to Rochester, in the State of Massachusetts,
and was nearly twenty years very acceptably united with Friends of Sandwich
Monthly Meeting; and in the year 1785, by removing to Little Compton, in
the State of Rhode-Island, became a member of this meeting. Here he continued
to devote much of his time and talents to the best of all causes, that
of universal righteousness.

He was a pleasant and cheerful companion; conspicuous for his humility
and true christian benevolence; of great simplicity and temperance, and
"civil beyond the usual forms of breeding." His character was highly esteemed,
both among Friends and others, in the different neighborhoods where he
resided.

He was employed in his usual occupation of husbandry, until within two
years of his decease, when, after the death of his wife, and his children
being all married, he gave up that business, often mentioning with gratitude,
the blessing that had followed his diligence and industry, whereby he had
been enabled to educate his family, and support them with comfort all his
life; and further remarked that he had settled his affairs so that he did
not know that he owed any person.

Having spent most of the last two years in visiting his children, who
were remotely situated, he attended the Quarterly Meeting at New-Bedford
early in the 12th month, 1815, and returning to the residence of his grandson,
John Austin, in nearly usual health, was soon after taken unwell, and remained
so about two weeks, but was not wholly confined to the house, when, on
the morning of the 20th, after breakfasting as usual, he fell from his
chair in a fit, and being laid in the bed, soon after expired, aged upwards
of eighty-five years; and on the 23d of the month, was buried in Friends'
burying ground, in Little Compton, after a solid meeting of Friends and
others.

As he had lived, so he died, in the unshaken faith that he had not followed
cunningly devised fables, but the pure and everlasting truth.

Signed in behalf of our Monthly Meeting of men and women Friends, held
at Westport, the 21st of 11th month, 1816, by

"Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord; from henceforth yea, saith
the spirit, that they may rest from their labors, and their works do follow
them."

Although the subject of this memorial has been for some time removed
from us, yet we believe it right for us to bear our testimony to the excellence
of his character, both as a mark of grateful commemoration of the source
from whence all good proceeds, and that the present and future generations
may derive instruction and encouragement by advertising to the course pursued
by one whose path may, in the emphatic language of Scripture, be said to
have been "as the shining light that shineth more and more unto the perfect
day."

Our late beloved friend, Obadiah Brown, son of Moses and Anna Brown,
was born in North-Providnece, Rhode-Island, the 15th of 7th month, 1771.
From a child he possessed a happy equanimity of temper, united with a remarkably
susceptible and ingenuous heart; and by these traits he peculiarly characterised
through the whole of his life. He was deprived of maternal care at an early
state of infancy, but the parental and Christian concern of a rightly qualified
father, proved successful in directing his youthful steps towards the garden
enclosed; and believe it may with propriety be said that he was "brought
up in the nurtue and admonition of the Lord." As he advanced in life he
evinced his allegiance to and love for the cause of truth and righteousness,
by his exemplary deportment, by the humility and contrition of his spirit,
and by his manifesting, on all occasions, his fellowship and sympathy with
the sincere and devoted servants of a crucified Redeemer. Many of these
can testify that they have partaken of his genuine hospitality, and have
received from him assistance in the name of a disciple.

He was industriously and prosperously engaged in business, by which
he accumulated an ample estate; but was particularly careful not to have
his mind absorbed therein, to the exclusion of higher and more important
objects, and he appeared at all times peculiarly to feel that he was an
almoner of the Lord's bounty. His practical benevolence was sensibly felt
in the community at large, and he shared in an uncommon degree the affection
and esteem of the intelligent and upright of all classes. What was said
of a conspicuous character in former times, may in measure apply to him,
"When the ear heard him it blessed him, and when the eye saw him it gave
witness to him." His philanthropy was extensive and remarkable. His charities
flowed through the unconfined channel of generosity and brotherly love.
The cause that he knew not, he sought out, administering to the necessities
of the needy.

In the social relations of life, few can be found who more fully consulted
and contributed to the comfort of those about him. The filial tenderness
and attention he displayed towards his venerable parent were very striking,
and are worthy of all imitation.

In the 3d month, 1798, he was married to Dorcas Hadwen, daughter of
John and Elizabeth Hadwen, of Newport, with whom he lived in much conjugal
tenderness during the remainder of his life. The Holy Scriptures he highly
valued, and habitually and attentively perused and was much concerned for
their diffusion in the world. He was a zealous advocate of the principles
of peace, and engaged with much earnestness in circulating publications
calculated to elucidate and establish this important subject among those
not of our profession.

His concilatory manners and affable address were passports for him to
the young, for whose welfare and safe advancement he manifested a deep
solicitude. Their religious, guarded education was with him a subject of
the most lively interest, and he was signally instrumental in the establishment
of the Yearly Meeting Boarding School; an institution designed to promote
this end, with the youth of our Society. To the funds of this institution
he contributed liberally while living, and in his will he bequeathed to
it a permanent and very ample legacy, which, as it continues to be appropriated
according to the intentions of the donor, will not fail, with Divine blessing,
to be a lasting benefit to the present and succeeding generations. To this
school he gave much personal attention, visiting it nearly every day, entering
into its concerns and rendering his advice and assistance with an ardor
that proved how deep was his interest in its welfare; and we trust that
neither its present nor future inmates will cease to remember with gratitude
and affection, the munificent source from whence they derive so many advantages.

He was firmly established in the doctrines of the Christian religion,
looking for salvation unto Jesus Christ our Lord, the author and finisher
of the saint's faith, and while few will be found who more fully acknowledged
the necessity of the obedience to the guidance of the Holy spirit, or believed
more implicitly in the efficacy of this baptizing and sanctifying influence
upon the heart, he did not fail to discover and acknowledge our dependence
on the mediatorial sacrifice of Jesus Christ on Calvary's mount, without
the gates of Jerusalem.

Thus established in the truths of the gospel, they were precious to
him, and he was firm in maintaining them, wisely discriminating between
the spirit of anti-Christ, which scatters and divides, and the effects
of that Faith which gathers and unites into quietness and peace.

He was much attached to the testimonies of our religious Society, and
supported with a zeal according to knowledge, its excellent discipline,
always manifesting in his own example, his adherence to its salutary restraints.
He sustained t the advantage of the precious cause in which he was engaged,
various offices in our Society, and occasionally spent a considerable portion
of time in traveling with friends, who were exercised in the ministry.

In the 7th month, 1822, he was appointed to the station of an Elder.

He closed his useful and estimable life the 15th of 10th month, 1822,
in the 52d year of his age, after an illness of short duration, and attended
comparatively with little suffering. In the course of its continuance,
his expressions were few, but the sweetness and serenity of his spirit
clearly manifested its preparation for the solemn charge, being entirely
sensible of its approach, and resigned to the even. "May our last end be
like his."

Signed on behalf, and by direction of Providence Monthly Meeting, held
at Smithfield, the 30th of 12th month, 1835.

SAMUEL BOYD TOBEY,}
SARAH SARLE,
}Clerks.

pg: 58-61

DAVID BUFFUM

Our minds being deeply impressed with the loss the Church hath sustained
by the removal from works to rewards, of our ancient and beloved friend,
David Buffum, we feel engaged to manifest our sense thereof by furnishing
the following testimony concerning him.

He was born in Smithfield, in the year 1743, and was the son of Joseph
and Margaret Buffum, both respectable members of our religious society.
For the last thirty-eight years of his life, he was a valuable member of
Rhode-Island Monthly Meeting.

He possessed a sound discriminating mind. Benevolence, sympathy and
genuine hospitality were distinguished traits in his character, and on
the subject of these and other valuable endowments, much might with truth
be said. Our object, however, is not to eulogize departed worth, but rather
to magnify the great and excellent name of Him who "giveth gifts unto men,"
and by his power can incline their hearts to consecrate them to his service.
By the operation of this power, the mind of our departed friend became
early convinced of the reality of true religion, and the necessity of yielding
to the convictions of the spirit of truth in the heart. But it was not
an easy thing for his strong mind to bow to the simplicity of the gospel,
yet being visited and revisited by Divine grace and the inshinings of that
light, which "maketh manifest," he was enabled clearly to see that the
way of the cross was the only way to the crown; thus after much self-abasement
and conflict, he strengthened to make the sacrifice required, and to offer
an offering in righteousness. On the subject of his internal exercises,
he did not often converse; yet there were seasons wherein he very feelingly
and instructively adverted to those solemn "days of preparation;" in one
of these, he left the following testimony to the importance of a strict
attention to manifested duty, even in things, considered by too many, as
of minor importance. "That if in the day of small things, he had not yielded
to the comparatively minute sacrifices demanded of him as tests of his
obedience, he never could have known an advancement in a religious course."

After this surrender of his will to the Divine will, a gift in the ministry
was committed to him. This he frequently exercised to the comfort and edification
of his friends; and many of us can feelingly bear witness to the humility
of spirit, the earnestness and solemnity which marked his communications,
when expostulating with his fellow pilgrims on the necessity of unreserved
obedience to the requirings of truth as manifested in the secret of the
soul. On this subject, a subject so forcibly and frequently inculcated
in the holy Scriptures, he was often evidently exercised, and appeared
deeply to feel the solemn import of the memorable charge given by Mary,
the mother of Jesus, to the servants at the marriage in Cana of Galilee:
"Whatever he saith unto you, do it." The due observance of this command,
together with that of often repairing to and keeping on the watch-tower,
were points to which with much weight and energy he frequently endeavored
to direct the attention of others. Through the efficacy of this watchfulness
he was favored to keep in proper subjection a mind inclined to philosophical
researches, and a disposition naturally cheerful.

He maintained with great firmness and religious propriety the testimonies
of truth, with respect to war and slavery; the former by patiently suffering
distraint of property; and the latter, by faithfully laboring in conjunction
with other exercised Friends, for the freedom of slaves that were held
by members of our religious Society; nor were these exertions abated until
all that were retained in bondage within this Yearly Meeting, were set
at liberty.

His field of labor in the line of ministry was not very extensive, his
services therein being chiefly within the compass of his own Yearly Meeting;
although he occasionally visit those of Philadelphia and New-York. Yet,
notwithstanding he was circumscribed in this respect, his mind often clothed
with desires, that Friends everywhere might live up to their profession.
The introduction of unsound principles into our once united Society, occasioned
him much painful exercise. In an interesting conversation, which an intimate
friend of his had with him latter time, on subjects relative to the Christian
Faith, he emphatically and with great reverence declared his full belief
in the plain Scripture account of the miraculous birth, life, miracles,
death, resurrection and ascension, of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ;
and that He is now our Mediator with the Father, and also expressed his
full assurance of the Divine authenticity of the Holy Scriptures.

In our Yearly, Quarterly, and subordinate meetings, he maintained his
station with great propriety and dignity, even to advanced age, and of
late years frequently under the pressure of much bodily suffering and debility,
occasioned by almost continual disease, yet his mental faculties were preserved
vigorous and active, he retaining to the last a lively concern that every
avenue might be carefully guarded to prevent the intrusion of evil, not
only in an individual by in a Society point of view.

He was a useful member of the meeting for Sufferings from the time of
its organization in the year 1775, until his death, with the exception
of one year, when he was released at his own request.

The winter preceding his death, his health was so much impaired and
his strength so reduced as to confine him almost wholly to the house.

In a religious opportunity which occurred in the family a few weeks
before his departure, our deer friend remarked he that thought he should
feel most easy to express that he believed his day's work was done, and
that he did not see anything to stand in his way, though he was aware that
he had not been so faithful in all things as would have been best, having
often been sensible of many, very many short comings, yet he believed these
were in mercy passed by; adding, that he was now waiting his final charge,
believing that he should go in peace, let it be sooner or later, though
he thought he had not long to stay, to which
apprehension he expressed his entire resignation.

He departed this life the 20th of the 5th month, 1829, and on the 22d
his remains were taken to the meeting house in Newport, and a solid meeting
held on the occasion, were interred in the burying ground there.

By direction and on behalf of Rhode-Island Monthly Meeting, held at
Portsmouth, the 30th of 4th month, 1830.

Believing that usefulness may result from preserving some account of
the lives of such of our deceased friend as have been distinguished for
piety and virtue; and as the subject of this memoir was one of this description,
we feel engaged to give forth the following testimony concerning him.

He was born in Newport, R. I., on the 14th of 7th month, 1762, of parents
not in membership with us. His mother died when he was very young. His
father, it appears, was engaged to bring up his family in the way of Friends,
and with them removed to Swanzey, in Massachusetts, in or near the year
1775; soon after which his father deceased, leaving him and a mother-in-law
with a family of young children. About the sixteenth year of his age he
went to learn the trade of a tailor, with a member of our Society in Providence,
R. I. It appears he was of a steady, serious turn of mind, and served the
term of his apprenticeship to great satisfaction. He then returned to live
in Swanzey, and diligently attended Friends' meetings, truth, as professed
by us, he soon requested, and was received a member of our religious Society,
and appeared to enter into the various services of the church with a willing
heart and a ready mind.

For several years he was in the place of an overseer, and at the same
time he was frequently made use of in other services; being a zealous promoter
of truth and righteousness he was also concerned that the discipline of
the church might be properly administered. In the year 1802 he was appointed
to the station of an Elder, which eh filled to the satisfaction of his
friends, in which time his Divine Master called him into the service of
instrument in the Lord's hands in declaring the everlasting an gospel among
the people, not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in the demonstration
of the Spirit and of Power, and was at times eminently favored with
the spirit of supplication.

His visits in truth's service were not very extensive, yet in addition
to those within our quarter, he several times visited most of the meetings
within the verge of several of our neighboring Quarterly Meetings; and
by his returning certificates therefrom, it appears they were performed
to good satisfaction.

He was a kind and affectionate husband, a good neighbor, free in conversation,
seasoned with grace; very diligent in the attendance of all our meetings,
and earnestly engaged to encourage others in this important duty. He took
a lively interest in the welfare of our young friends, often imparting
a word of encouragement to them, and when opportunities presented, he was
concerned to introduce ious reading, the intention of which was to incite
them to wisdom's ways.

Although his outward circumstances were limited, yet by strict attention
to his occupation, he had enough for the support of his family and the
kind entertainment of his friends. In the decline of life, accompanied
with bodily infirmities, he went but little abroad, except to attend our
Yearly and Quarterly Meetings, which he continued to do until within a
few years of his death, and was favored to attend his won particular meeting
until near his close, although with much difficulty; and a short time before
his decease, being under appointments with other Friends, he visited some
of the families of our Monthly Meeting. In the early part of his last sickness,
which he endured with Christian fortitude and resignation, although his
bodily sufferings were very great, he observed he thought it would be his
last, and calmly added, he had no fear of death, for he knew in whom he
had trusted, and safely relied on that arm which never had failed him.

During his illness he was often engaged in supplication, not only on
his own behalf, but for his beloved friends whom he was about to leave,
which at one time was as followeth:--

"Gracious and most Merciful Father, if it is consistent with thy divine
will, be pleased, I beseech thee, to release me from this deep suffering,
and take me to thyself; yet, may I be patient and wait the right time;
and grant, O Merciful Father, the favor of thy love unto they church militant,
and water it with the dew of Heaven, and be pleased to raise up judges,
as at the first, an councellors, as at the beginning; all of which I ask
in the name of thy Son, the Lamb Immaculate."

At another time he exclaimed, "Oh! death, where is thy sting: Oh! grave,
where is thy victory?" And a few moments before he expired, he was heard
to say, "Merciful and Holy Father, receive my spirit;" and quietly departed,
without a sigh or a groan, on the 13th of the 12th month, 1836.

Signed on behalf and by direction of Swanzey Monthly Meeting, held in
Fall River, the 29th of the 10th month, 1838.

THOMAS WILBUR, }
ELIZABETH B. CHACE,} Clerks.

pg: 15-17

JOHN COLLINS

Testimony from the monthly meeting of South Kingstown, in Kings County,
in Rhode-Island Government, concerning John Collins.

He was born in the town then called Westerly, in said Government, the
21st day of 12th month, in the year 1716, old style, of believing parents,
and when about 23 or 24 years of age, was convinced of the blessed truth,
and became zealous and circumspect in his life and conversation, and for
Truth's sake, took up the cross and denied himself of his former pleasures
and delights. It was not long after his convincement, before his mouth
was opened in a public testimony, wherein although for some years he had
but few words in meeting, yet his appearance was both acceptable and edifying
to Friends, and as he proved himself faithful and diligent in the gift
bestowed upon him, the Lord was pleased to enlarge it, so that he became
an able minister of the gospel. And being possessed of a good understanding,
he was through divine grace, serviceable in the discipline of the Church.
He was also very diligent in attending meetings, until infirmity of body
rendered him unable. He was not forward in appearing in testimony in meetings;
but when he felt a necessity upon him so to do, his exercise tended to
the edification and comfort of those who sat under his ministry. Upon his
observing the great loss and damage many in connexion with us had suffered,
as he apprehended, from their taking upon them offices in civil government,
he has been heard to say, that he thought all who take upon them our high
and holy profession and strictly attend to the dictates of truth in their
own hearts, would be preserved from taking such offices.

When he became affected with bodily disease, which was of a pulmonary
nature, and protracted in its duration, his zeal and fervency were not
abated, which was manifested by his continued constancy in attending meetings,
both for worship and discipline. He was much engaged and took much pains
in endeavoring to have the Africans or negroes freed from slavery, and
often testified against that wicked practice. He was exemplary in bring
up his children in plainness of habit and speech. About a week before his
decease, he called those of them that lived in the house with him, and
said that he had no expectation of continuing long, and he had this advice
to give them. "Live together in love, and be kind one to another; and be
diligent in attending meetings--and when met, not to be looking for words,
but to endeavor to be gathered inward and to wait in silence to be taught
by that infallible teacher, the spirit of Christ, in your own hears." His
disease increasing, and he continuing to grow weaker and his speech failing
much, he appeared frequently to be in prayer, by lifting up his hands,
and the moving of his lips, and one time was heard to say, "Be with me,
O God, at this time." At another time, a friend that was sitting by him,
said "it may be, that thou mayest recover, there may be some further service
for thee," he answered, "I have no will about it, yet had rather be released
if it be the Lord's will; if not, I desire to be conformed thereunto, and
if there be any further service for me, I hope I shall be faithful, but
I believe that my service is over." He continued to fail, and drawing towards
his end, one of his sons coming to his bed side, he looked at him and said
"almost gone," his son answered "it looks so" and, "I think thou hast been
greatly favored in the preservation of thy understanding;" he answered
"yes, and notwithstanding the extremity of my pain, I believe I shall be
favored with an easy passage when the time comes," which to appearance,
was granted him. He continued sensible to the last, and departed this life
the 1st day of the 10th month, 1778, in the 63d year of his age, and was
buried the 3d of the same, in the Friends' burying ground in Hopkinton,
after a solemn meeting held on the occasion in the meeting-house. The foregoing
testimony was signed by Stephen Hoxie, by order and on behalf of said Monthly
Meeting of South Kingstown, held 28th of 3d month, 1780.

STEPHEN HOXIE, Clerk at this time.

The forgoing testimony of the Monthly Meeting of South Kingstown, respecting
our esteemed friend John Collins, deceased, had been read in this meeting,
and the same is directed to be sent up to the Yearly Meeting, this meeting
approving thereof, with this additional testimony, that he, notwithstanding
his views that the administration of civil government in the present state
of the world did not belong to Friends, held civil government to be necessary,
and that there was an order of men whose business it was to administer
the same. We have also to mention his zeal and care to further the service
of Friends who were traveling for the promotion of truth amongst us, often
accompanying them therein, giving up his time to the service of the church,
in a manner worthy of imitation. And as he lived to the promotion of righteousness
on earth, we doubt not of his receiving the reward prepared for those who
love the Lord Jesus in sincerity and truth.

Signed in and on behalf of our Quarterly Meeting, held at East Greenwich
for Rhode Island, in New England, by adjournment, the 14th of 4th month
1780, by

He was the son of Amos and Thankful Collins, of North Stonington, in
the State of Connecticut, who were members of our religious Society, and
was born in that place on the 2d of the 5th month, 1770, where he also
resided.

The restraining care of his parents, over his youthful mind, with the
blessing of Divine love, was greatly conducive to that purity of heart
which he afterwards attained.

He was in youth possessed of a mild and quiet disposition, and of an
open, forgiving spirit, which, in more mature age, combined with religious
devotion, made his character interesting. In the 21st year of his age he
was married to Mary, daughter of Thomas and Mary Wilbur, of Hopkinton,
in the State of Rhode-Island, to whom he was an affectionate companion
through life. He was a believer in the truth of Christianity, as testified
of in the sacred Scriptures, and in the immediate guidance of the Holy
Spirit; and being convinced of the instability of all earthly things, and
the necessity of regeneration, and daily bearing the cross of Christ, he
endeavored, through watchfulness unto prayer, to walk consistently with
so high a profession, and was encouraged to seek after a close communion
with the Lord, and strengthened in good measure to overcome his natural
will and walk in the path of Christian simplicity and self-denial.

As a father, guardian or friend, he performed his duties with affection
and tenderness, and was able by his industry and diligence, with the blessing
of Divine Providence, to supply the wants of a numerous family. He was
engaged to promote love and forbearance among his brethren, often enforcing
these virtues by citing the example of our Divine Master, and would often
say it was better to suffer wrong than to do wrong to others. His sympathy
and pity for the afflicted were often conspicuous, and he frequently enabled
to give to such, appropriate counsel and encouragement; and being easy
of access, his advice was much sought after. He was diligent in the attendance
of religious meetings, and in encouraging those under his care to the faithful
performance of the same duty. He frequently went in a feeble state of health,
and his reverent waiting therein as well as in opportunities of retirement
at home were very instructive. He endeavored, through watchfulness, to
maintain the Christian warfare; and when apprehending it required of him,
he became willing to labor in the ministry and first appeared in that service
in the thirty-seventh year of his age, and his gift therein was soon after
acknowledged by Friends.

In the exercise of his gift his offerings were attended by an evidence
of Christian love in which he often favored to minister to individual states
in great tenderness, and in humble and weighty manner. His spirit was remarkably
clothed with reverence and solemnity when engaged in vocal prayer. He was
usefully engaged in the work of visiting friends' families, and several
times made religious visits in the neighboring States, which conduced to
the peace of his own mind, and which were salutary and acceptable to those
visited, as evinced by returning certificates from various meetings of
Friends.

In the year 1815, he was visited with a severe illness, which resulted
in a permanent disease; his distress during this illness was at times very
great, in which he manifested much patience and resignation. He told his
wife his prospect of forgiveness was as clear as the sun; and to one who
enquired after his state of mind, he replied, "I feel that peace which
I would not exchange for the whole world." Although his disease continued,
he gradually recovered a comparatively comfortable state, and was again
enabled to attend to his social and religious duties.

That charitable and forgiving disposition, the fruit of true Christianity,
shone forth with increasing brightness, in advanced life, and though mild
and unobtrusive, he was firm and persevering when duty required, nor wa
weakness of body suffered to plead as an excuse for neglect; but using
his portion of strength with regularity, his exertions turned to good account.
He was zealous that the discipline of the church should be maintained in
its purity, and anxious that admonition should be given to offenders, in
love; and willing to dig about the unfruitful and wait with them patiently.
His exertions were often successful in reconciling differences, so that
it may be justly said of him that he was a peace-maker. He was liberal
in promoting works of benevolence; to the poor and suffering, he was an
unostentatious benefactor. He entertained his friends with kindness and
hospitality, and at the same time was a good example of that simplicity
in his domestic concerns which becomes the self-denying follower of Christ.
In his passage through life, he met with many trials and afflictions, which
he bore with meekness submissions, and showed the sincerity of his profession
by constancy and cheerfulness under them, remarking that "they are intended
for our instruction and refinement;" and that he felt desirous, in every
trial, to adopt the language, "Not my will, but thine be done." In the
perusal of the holy Scriptures, he took great delight and was concerned
to practice the daily reading of them in his family.

While thus pursuing his Christian course, it pleased unsearchable wisdom
to call him hence. About two months previous to his departure, a close
affliction was permitted to befall him, in the removal by death of a dear
child, on which occasion his parental feelings were peculiarly tried. In
her departing moments he prayed fervently that she might be received into
the mansions of bliss; another invalid daughter he affectionately endeavored
to console on the occasion, by saying, "Weep not for her, we have no cause
to mourn, she has exchanged this world for a better." It being observed,
"There is a breach made in our little number which can not be restored,"
he replied, "I know it, but we must be prepared to follow, and if we can
be permitted to meet in Heaven, what an unspeakable favor it will be."
His health at this time had become feeble, and two weeks previous to his
decease, his symptoms assumed a serious appearance, after which he was
unable to lave his chamber, and expressed his conviction that he should
not recover, and exhorted his wife to be resigned to the will of Heaven.

His case became more alarming, and though suffering much bodily pain,
yet his patience and resignation were great; no repining word escaped him,
but he received every affliction as from a Merciful Father, and prayed
that his eye might not pity, nor his hand spare, until judgment was brought
forth unto victory. At another time he was enabled to lay hold of the consoling
promise, "My grace is sufficient for thee," and to believe in the fulfilment
of it. After a severe paroxism of the disease, he prayed to the giver of
every good and perfect gift, that he might not be permitted to do any thing
but that which might tend to his honor and glory. He spoke of himself as
an unworthy creature, ascribing all his hopes to the Saviour, and magnifying
him in all things.

Love, the conspicuous feature in his character, seemed remarkably to
abound in this sickness, affectionately taking all by the hand who approached
him, and sending messages of love to many. He often tenderly embraced his
wife and children, and expressed his gratitude to those about him for their
kind attention to him, and gave suitable instructions to his children,
respecting their future conduct.

Near his close, articulation becoming difficult, he was unable to express
much; but the serenity of his contenance, evincing the sweetness of his
spirit, was such as indicated that all wa peace within. His work was nearly
done, his warfare nearly accomplished; little remained but to wait patiently
until his change came; and as the period approached, his faith failed not,
and he passed quietly away without a sigh or a groan; and we have reason
to believe, (as he expressed his hope near his close,) that he has entered
a mansion of glory, there to join the just of all generations, in singing
praises to Him who alone is worthy.

"Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright, for the end of that man
is peace."

He departed this life on the 17th of the 9th month, 1834, aged 64 years.

Signed by direction and on behalf of the aforesaid Monthly Meeting,
held at Western, the 27th of the 4th month, 1835, by

WILLIAM A. ROBINSON,}
SUSAN C. WILBUR, }Clerks.

pg: 13-14

PETER DAVIS

Our beloved ancient friend, Peter Davis, was born at Dover, in Great
Britian, the 1st of 3d month, 1680. By his own account he was brought over
to Boston, North-America, when very young. He was educated after the manner
of the Presbyterians, and was a professor of religion in the order of that
denomination. About the thirty-sixth year of his age, he became convinced
of the principles of truth as professed by the Society of Friends.

He was a minister, well approved; his life and conversation agreeing
with his profession--careful to educate his children in plainness of speech
and habit, zealous for the cause of truth, a diligent attender of meetings,
both for worship and discipline. His religious services were not confined
about home. He visited most of the meetings of Friends in New-England,
where his public testimonies were well received, and were to the edification
and comfort of many.

He left his home, in Westerly, R. I., on a visit to Friends, in England,
the 4th of 5th month, 1747, with the approbation and unity of his friends;
travelled through Connecticut into the province of New-York, and visited
the meetings of Friends at and about Albany, East and West Jersey, Pennsylvania
and Maryland; thence to Philadelphia, where he took shipping for England;
but on his passage was taken by Spaniards and carried into France, and
from thence got passage to England. He visited the meetings in London and
those in the western and northern parts of that kingdom, pretty generally,
where he was also well received and had good service among them, as appeared
by certificates. After his return he remained steadfast in the faith and
fervent in spirit, often leaving his family and occupation, which was that
of a tailor, to visit his brethren in the various parts of the quarterly-meeting
and the families of Friends in the adjacent meetings, to their comfort
and edification. Like the beloved ancient disciple of our blessed Lord,
(to whom he had many times been likened) he frequently exhorted his brethren
to love one another and to be faithful, taking occasion in his public testimony
to assure those to whom he ministered, that honesty was the best policy,
which he was enabled often to open to such striking manner that he was
known by his friends, both in Great Britain and America, by this maxim.
Although his gift lay more in the ministry than in the administration of
the discipline of the Church, he was sensible that that necessary institution
was not so fully attended to, as would be best, which he manifested in
a lively simile, in his advanced age, say that "Notwithstanding I have
not been so much engaged in the discipline of the Church as might have
been best,, yet it is like marrow to my bones in my old age, to see the
young and rising generation engaged therein, for we have been ploughing
and sowing, but neglecting to keep up the hedge, the wild beasts have got
in and devoured our labor." He often visited the sick and afflicted, and
we have reason to believe they were often refreshed by his ministry. When
far advanced in old age, he continued to appear in the exercise of his
gift, with that warmth and brightness which is reflected by a near approach
to the Sun of Righteousness; and when he had access to His presence in
prayer, the spirit of which he frequently appeared to be favored with,
an awful solemnity and covering of the Divine Canopy was witnessed. By
reason of great age he was confined to his house about fifteen months before
his death. During this time he had often something to offer in meetings,
held at his house on account of his not being able to get out. About fifteen
days before his dissolution, he was seized with a fit, and continued to
grow weaker until the 29th of 2d month, 1776, when he departed this life,
in the 96th year of his age, and was interred in Friends' burying-ground,
in Westerly, on the 3d of 3d month following.

To a friend, who visited him during his last illness, he said, being
in a tender frame of spirit, "As I have lived in love,, so I expect to
die in unity with Friends. Give my love to all my dear friends who ask
after me." And as our beloved friend, so he died, in the unity of his brethren;
being indeed, an Elder worthy of double honor.

Signed in and by order of South-Kingstown Monthly Meeting, held at Richmond,
the 28th of 3d month, 1780, by

STEPHEN HOXIE, Clerk for this time.

pg: 17-20

MOSES FARNUM

Testimony from the Monthly Meeting of Smithfield, concerning Moses
Farnum.

He was born in Uxbridge, the 25th of the then 8th month, 1730. His parents,
Moses and Abigail Farnum, were then in profession with the Presbyterians,
and were afterwards convinced of the Truth, as professed by us, and were
zealously concerned to educate their children therein. This concern was
afterwards gratefully remembered by the subject of this memoir, as being
to his lasting advantage. When quite young, he appears to have been inattentive
to these parental reproofs, and to have lightly esteemed concerned friends,
until his tender mind was reached by the supplication of a friend, particularly
for his father's family, in a meeting held at his house. After this, he
dare not speak lightly of our profession. Notwithstanding the repeated
visitations of Divine Goodness to him, he made but little progress in religious
experience, for several years.

After he married, and had a family of several children around him, he
became more obedient to the teachings of truth, and useful in our society,
and being favored to improve the talent received, the Lord was pleased
to commit unto him a gift in the ministry. In entering upon which service,
he was deeply baptized under a humbling sense of the weight of such a work,
and often appeared much affected in our meetings, under the influence thereof.

He, as a minister, was a close reprover of backsliders; but to the sincere
and heavy laden, his words were like oil to their comfort and encouragement.
He was short, but comprehensive in his public testimonies, and at times
much favored in supplication. He was ready to indite in a short and comprehensive
manner, and was extensively useful in the discipline of the church. He
was a man of good nature understanding and capable of argument, yet he
seldom engaged in any doubtful disputation, but in our meetings for discipline,
when such questions arose, he forbore, keeping a bridle upon his tongue,
until the truth opened his way, when often by a simple expression of his
feelings they were satisfactorily settled.

He was steady in the attendance of our religious meetings, and a good
example therein, humbly waiting for divine assistance, and often recommended
it to others as the only way to renew their strength. In the endearing
relation of father and husband, he was kind, tender and careful, keeping
his family constant in attending our meetings, and bringing them up in
our christian order of plainness in speech, behavior and apparel, and in
the frequent reading of the Holy Scriptures, and he often called them together
to sit in silence, sometimes counseling as truth gave utterance.

But what rendered him still more amiable in the view of his friends
as being a strong mark of true discipleship, was his readiness to be advised,
and to take advice, showing thereby, his great love for the brethren.

In his neighborhood he was useful and respected, having a disposition
and qualifications which rendered his company and conversation instructive
and desirable.

He was useful and instrumental in obtaining the freedom of oppressed
enslaved Africans, and became so deeply concerned to unbind the heavy burdens
and let the oppressed go free, that for several years before his death,
he declined the use of such goods as he knew to be the product of the labor
of slaves.

He very constantly attended the Quarterly and Yearly meetings to which
he belonged, and travelled considerably within their limits as a minister,
visiting Monthly Meetings in company with other friends. He visited on
a religious account, most of the families in his own Monthly Meeting, and
some of them several times, to their satisfaction, being well qualified
for such a service. And in this, as well as his other labors, he was fervently
engaged for the prosperity of the youth.

In the year 1779, with the concurrence of Friends, he visited Pennsylvania,
on a religious account, and attended the Yearly Meeting in Philadelphia,
and many adjacent meetings, to the satisfaction of Friends. Shortly after,
in company with Abraham Griffiths, from Pennsylvania, he made a religious
visit ot Friends in Salem Quarterly Meeting, in the States of Massachusetts,
New Hampshire and Maine, and it was winter and much snow on the ground,
he suffered great hardship, and this with his exposures afterwards in going
to meetings, through roads impassable for horses, by reason of snow, caused
him to think he mush perish by the way.

He however remained in comfortable health until 3d month, 1780, about
which time he was observed to fail, and his disease proving to be apoplectic,
greatly affected his speech, yet he conversed brokenly and by signs, until
near his last. Being asked as to the state of his mind, he said, that on
a review of his life, he had seen many things in which he had been unfaithful,
but had known them all done away, so that now nothing but peace and quiet
of mind remained, and that this was his happy state, fully appeared, by
his patient resignation through the whole of his illness.

He gave his family much good advice, exhorting them to live in love
one to another, and counseling his children to be obedient to their remaining
parent, and was enabled so to speak to them, that they were much affected.

He had borne his testimony against war and bloodshed, by refusing to
pay the tax for the support of it, and near his end he expressed his satisfaction
that he had so done, and his belief that such a testimony would arise into
dominion.

About two days before his decease, feeling himself drawing near to a
conclusion, he took his solemn and final farewell of his family (at which
time his understanding appeared clear, and he a little revived,) taking
them each by the hand, as well as others present, being unable to say more
than yes or no, but with the appearance of a mind truly sensible of the
nature and solemnity of such a parting.

He gradually sunk till near the close, when falling into a sleep, he
remained till he breathed his last without a sigh or groan, on the 9th
day of the 5th month, 1780. His remains were interred in Friends' burying
ground in Uxbridge, on the 11th following, on which occasion, a large concourse
of Friends and other attended.

Thus time closed with a valiant in the Lord's cause, who we doubt not
is now at rest in a mansion of glory.

Signed on behalf and by direction of the Meeting aforesaid held at Smithfield,
the 1st of 9th month, 1780, by

The following memorial, concerning our beloved friend, Daniel Howland,
was read in this meeting and approved, having the unity of our women's
meeting herein, and the clerk is directed to sign the same on behalf of
this meeting, and forward it to our next Quarterly Meeting.

"Blessed are those servants who the Lord, when he cometh, shall find
watching."--Luke, xii, 37.

It appears not only desirable, but a Christian duty, to preserve some
brief memorial of our dearly beloved friend, Daniel Howland, deceased.
He was born at East-Greenwich, in the state of Rhode-Island, on the 24th
of 12th month, 1754. He was the son of Daniel Howland, and his mother's
name, previous to marriage, was Philadelphia Brownell. They gave the subject
of this memoir a guarded and religious education. In very early life he
became sensible of divine impressions, which, with the pious precepts and
example of his parents, restrained him from following many of the vain
fashions and customs of the world, and he was thus mercifully preserved
in a good degree of uprightness of conduct and conversation through the
earlier walks of life. And as he approached the stature of man, he witnessed
the operations of Divine Grace, increasingly to restrain his natural propensities
and inclinations, and to bring his mind in a greater degree under the redeeming
power of the Cross of Christ, and was made to bow under its sanctifying
and reconciling influence. In this state of humiliation and abasement of
self, he was brought near to the pit of despair, and for many weeks his
mind appeared to suffer inexpressible anxiety and distress. But he who
knew the integrity of his heart, and what was best for him, in due time
restored him to the light of his glorious covenant of Grace, and enabled
him to sing praises to his Redeemer, as on the banks of deliverance.

Not far from this time, he appeared in public ministry in a few words,
in much humility and simplicity of manner, accompanied with that wisdom
which rendered his testimony acceptable to his friends. He was early employed
in the concerns of the Society, the welfare of which he evinced through
the whole of a long life that he was earnestly engaged to promote, and
to maintain its peculiar testimonies. He was often engaged in public and
in private, to encourage those with whom he associated to live in love
and in the exercise of charity and good feeling towards each other; and
such appeared to be the prevalence of Christian charity, love to God, and
love to man, that it became one of the most striking and common features
of his public testimonies. Although his charity and liberal feelings were
generally manifested in his intercourse with his fellow-men, he was careful
not to compromise or let fall any of the Christian doctrines, as held and
believed in by the Society of Friends; being through life an unshaken believer
in and supporter of, (according to his measure,) the gospel dispensation,
introduced by the coming of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, confirmed
by his mighty works, established and perfected by his suffering, death,
resurrection and ascension, and in his becoming our Intercessor and Advocate
with the Father, and by the giving of Holy Ghost, or Holy Spirit. And when
sentiments were advanced, lessening or denying his divinity, his offices,
the efficacy of his sufferings and death, as set forth by the evangelists
and apostles, he would occasionally remark, that without a belief in these
fundamental truths, he could not see on what ground any one could justly
lay claim to the appellation of a Christian.

He travelled but little on a religious account, out of his own Yearly
Meeting, and not very generally over that. With the approbation of his
Monthly and Quarterly Meetings, he attended the Quarterly Meetings of Nine
Partners, and Easton, and some other meetings in the State of New-York,
in the year 1814, bring back with him, from several of the meetings, written
evidences that his company and labors of love had been acceptable to those
visited. Notwithstanding our beloved friend had been mercifully favored
to experience much of the consolations of divine grace, and made partaker
of the good word of life, yet his great and gracious Creator saw meet in
his inscrutable wisdom to suffer his faith again to be tried, even as to
a hair's breadth; and for many months he was left to feel as though his
lot was cast as in a desert land where there was neither dew nor rain,
nor field of offering, and, as it were, to call in question all his former
experiences. Although hope had thus lost its cheering influence, and faith
had measurably ceased to exert its sustaining power, yet his Hold Redeemer
did not cast him off, but in his wonted goodness brought him up again,
as from the pit, and established his goings, and enabled him to sing songs
of thanksgiving and praise, and in deep humility to acknowledge that through
the merits of redeeming love he had been brought out of great adversity,
and his soul made to rejoice with joy unspeakable. In 1818, he obtained
a certificate from his Monthly and Quarterly Meetings, to attend the Yearly
Meetings in Pennsylvania and New-York and some meetings belonging thereto;
which visit he accomplished, and brought back with him testimonies that
it had been acceptable to Friends.

Here it may be proper to introduce a few remarks, which are in his own
hand writing, and were evidently intended to be preserved, viz: "1832,
2nd month, 10th. It seemed with me to record a few of the gracious dealings
of Divine Providence with me, even in very early life, in that he hath
at times poured forth of his blessings upon me, both temporal and spiritual,
whereby my heart has been tendered, and I have desired to be favored to
return thanksgiving and praise to Him who is alone worthy of all praise.
And this saying often been consoling to mind: 'Keep my commands,' saith
Christ, 'so shall ye abide in my love, even as I have kept my father's
commandments, and abide in his love.' This has appeared to me above all
things, desirable for mankind to abide in divine love. As this is our experience,
we may, in our day be favored to feel in degree the same renewings of the
Holy Ghost, that made the Prophets and Apostles in their day truly alive
until God, and to experience indeed, that the name of the Lord is a strong
tower, to which the righteous flee in every time of trial, and are safe."

As a husband, he was invariably kind and affectionate; as a father,
tender and compassionate; uniformly manifesting an ardent desire for the
present, and above all, the everlasting felicity of every member of his
family; and in all the relations of social life, exhibiting in no ordinary
degree, kindness and benevolence of heart.

His situation, though far from affluent, was still such as to enable
him to entertain his friends, and to impart something to the comfort of
others, who stood in need, and in both he manifested peculiar satisfaction.
He often expressed his confidence in divine goodness, by saying that he
believed that if he did as well as he knew, in reference to divine requirings,
he should not fail of having sufficient; which was rather remarkably exemplified,
and which he did not fail gratefully to acknowledge. His mind was often
deeply interested when contemplating the situation of the people of color
in this country, both as it respects the aborigines, as well as those of
the African race; often expressing a desire that the precepts, or commands
of our Saviour, that of doing unto others as we would that others should
do unto us, might be extended unto them, that so they might enjoy the blessings
of civil and religious liberty, which a gracious Creator designed alike
for them, as for all.

In his life and conversation he gave evidence of having day by day,
spiritual union and communion with his gracious Creator, through the medium
of the Holy Spirit, and we doubt not, that under its influence and holy
help, he was enabled so to walk by faith, endeavoring to do the Divine
will, as to receive the testimony before he was taken hence, one formerly
had, that he pleased God.

For some years before his decease, he had been affected with bodily
disease, in such manner as to give just reason to apprehend that his life
would terminate suddenly; of which he appeared to be very sensible, and
divers times observed, that it was not very important in what way, if he
was but prepared. And when the awful moments came, and the agonies of death
were upon him, (which lasted nearly three hours,) when at intervals he
was able to speak, he appeared perfectly calm and undisturbed, as one whose
faith failed not. Thus terminated a long life, devoted, above all other
considerations, to love, serve, and obey his Holy Redeemer, walking in
the footsteps of the righteous, who had gone before him, and obtained a
resting place; and we are thankful in believing that through the mercies
and loving-kindness of God in Christ Jesus, he has received a righteous
man's reward. "Verily there is a reward for the righteous, verily he is
a God who judgeth in the earth."

He died early in the morning, on the 23d of the 8th month, 1834, and
was interred in Friends' burying ground, on the 24th of the same, after
a very large and solemn meeting, aged 79 years and about eight months.

Our beloved friend Elizabeth Mott, was the youngest daughter of Jacob
and Mary Mott, of Portsmouth, on Rhode-Island, and was born in the year
1728.

Through a blessing on the pious parental care bestowed upon her, she
was preserved in her youthful days in a good degree of innocence and implicity
of mind and manners, and her taste for reading being directed particularly
to the Holy Scriptures, and to works of a religious tendency and especially
the writings of our ancient friends, she gave evidence of the good effects
thereof, and by yielding to the visitations of divine love with which she
was favored in early life, she became qualified to discharge in an exemplary
manner the various and important duties of an attentive and sympathizing
daughter to her aged father, of an affectionate sister in her brother's
family exercising judicious tenderness and care towards his children, and
to become a valuable member of our religious society; in administering
the discipline of which, and in its various services she was much and usefully
employed, having for some years acceptably filled the very important station
of an Elder.

In the year 1778, a gift of the ministry was dispensed to her in the
exercise of which she evinced much humility and care. The deep sense of
the awfulness of the vocation which rested on her mind was apparent in
the solemnity of her countenance and demeanor when engaged either in testimony
or vocal supplication, and her labors of love, both in public and in private
opportunities, were often awakening to the negligent and encouraging and
consoling to the afflicted, whom she tenderly sympathized with and frequently
visited. During the time when this country was involved in war with England,
she was brought under deep mental exercise from an apprehension of duty
to address the Legislature of this State. After duly pondering the weighty
concern in her own mind, she imparted it to her friends, and being encouraged
by them, she wrote a pertinent communication, strongly recommending to
their observance the two first commandments, as comprising the whole duty
of man, and the principle that ought to govern their proceedings. It was
approved by the meeting for sufferings, which manifested much sympathy
with her on the occasion, and left her at liberty to proceed in regard
to it in the manner that accorded best with her prospects. She accordingly
enclosed it in a letter to the Governor, and requested him to present it
to the General Assembly, which he did at their session in the year 1780,
where it was respectfully received and read.

Her dedication was again put to a close, and of latter times an unusual
trial, in the winter of 1791-2, when she believed it was required of her
to deliver a gospel message to the people in the streets of Newport. Being
of a disposition naturally diffident and retiring, and deeply impressed
with the awfulness of the requisition, she experienced a severe conflict
previous to becoming resigned to it, but having the unity of sympathizing
friends, and being availingly strengthened by the arm of the All-Sufficient
Helper of those who trust in Him, in whom she had learned to confide, she
was enabled to accomplish the service in a manner that produced a testimony
from some of the religiously inclined amongst her auditors (not of our
religious society) to the power and authority with which she was enabled
to address them to the satisfaction of the friends who bore her company,
and as it appeared, much to the relief and comfort of her own mind. In
the evening of that day, after a season of solemn silence in the family
of two of those friends who accompanied her, she weightily expressed that
she felt fearful of interrupting the precious sabbath of rest, into which
her spirit had been introduced, but she apprehended that some vocal acknowledgement
was due from her to the goodness and bounty of him who had permitted her
to enjoy it.

She never travelled beyond the limits of this yearly-meeting, but visited
several of the Quarterly Meetings which compose it, and on her return,
producing satisfactory testimonials that her gospel labors were acceptable
to friends where she had been. As long as bodily ability was afforded her,
she diligently attended our Quarterly Meeting, which at that time included
a large compass, and was held at distant places,, and occasionally visited
other meetings belonging to it, and she continued to be exemplary in in
the performance of that duty within this Monthly Meeting long after a lameness
that she was many years afflicted with, rendered it painful and difficult
for her to get abroad. The gradual increase of that lameness, and general
debility of her limbs with the usual infirmities of declining age, confined
her at home about eight years, and the last five of her life to her chamber,
and mostly to her bed.

She bore this long confinement with much patience and resignation; her
conversation was often animated and cheerful, and being accompanied with
that religious care which evidently dwelt upon her mind, was very interesting
and instructive.

In this state of great bodily weakness and seclusion, she retained a
lively interest in the welfare of the Society, and manifested great solicitude
for the support of its peculiar doctrines and testimonies, and that its
discipline should be preserved from innovation, which a desire for greater
liberty than the truth allows, would lead into, if not sedulously guarded
against. She encouraged friends who visited her to vigilance and faithfulness,
and enabled to strengthen the hands of some whose views and feelings in
these respects coincided with her own.

During this period her mind was at times deeply exercised on subjects
of more public, as well as of a more private nature, than this. The African
slave trade, which was then illicitly, but pretty openly prosecuted from
this State, became a grevious burden to her mind, from which she could
find no relief but by addressing those engaged in the iniquitous traffic.
In the summer of 1806, she accordingly wrote a close and pathetic expostulation,
which being approved by the Meting for Sufferings, a copy was sent to each
of those who were known to be concerned in that business, and it was afterwards
inserted in one of the public papers in the town of Newport.

She was also frequently brought under deep exercise on account of individuals,
to whom she believed it required of her to impart counsel or caution, several
of whom she had no personal acquaintance with. Some were invited on these
occasions to her bedside, and to others she communicated what was on her
mind in letters; though from the prostration of her bodily strength, she
could hardly write legibly; they were therefore copied by a friend and
signed by herself.

These deep engagements were renewed at times, till within a few months
of her decease, affording a striking illustration of the Psalmist's expressions,
"Those that be planted in the house of the Lord, shall flourish in the
courts of our God. They shall bring forth fruit in old age."

Having gradually sunk under much suffering, and powers of nature nearly
exhausted, she was seized with apoplexy, the 4th of 2d month, 1813, which
terminated her mortal life about thirty hours after, and we have no doubt
that she has entered into the joy of her Lord.

She was in the eighty-fifth year of her age; a minister about thirty-five
years.

Signed on behalf and by direction of the Monthly Meeting aforesaid,
held at Newport, the 26th of 1st month, 1826, by

DAVID RODMAN,}
RUTH RODMAN, } Clerks.

pg: 20-23

JOSEPH MITCHEL.

Testimony of the Monthly Meeting of Friends, held at Newport for
Rhode Island, the 29th of 5th month, 1787, concerning our esteemed friend,
Joseph Mitchel, deceased.

He was born on the Island of Nantucket, in the year 1741, of parents
professing the truth with us, by whom he was educated in the same profession.
In the year 1781, he became a member of Rhode Island Monthly Meeting, by
certificate from the Monthly Meeting of Greenwich, being recommended an
approved Elder, and having for some time appeared in public testimony to
the satisfaction of friends. And steadily attending to his gift, he experienced
a growth therein, and became faithful and approved minister, being an example
n plainness and simplicity, in godliness and honest, and of whose self
denying life we might mention many things that appeared in him, evidencing
him as a follower in the footsteps of the flock of the companions of Christ.
He was a man invested with a deep concern for the promotion of truth, being
favored with quick discernment and of remarkable stability, grave in his
deportment amongst men, and in religious meetings his countenance bespoke
solidity and reverence. In the attendance of meetings, both for worship
and discipline, he was careful and diligent, and in his appearance in public
testimony to the truth was attentive to the openings and closings thereof,
which rendered his service savory and edifying. He believed it required
of him at a particular time to declare publicly in the streets of Newport
against the superfluities and extravagance of the people, to which, in
obedience to what he apprehended to be his duty, he gave up. He was also
concerned to write to the legislative authority, expressive of what had
impressed his mind, respecting the peculiar care of the Most High, over
those who placed their dependence on Him, and of his prospect of a threatened
scourge to those who continues to reject His law. Which having been communicated
to the meeting for sufferings and receiving their approbation, he presented
it with his own hand.

He was also deeply concerned on account of that iniquitious practice
of making slaves of the people of Africa and of the injustice and cruelty
exercised in many places upon those reduced to that condition, from a sense
of which he became particularly careful that no part of his conduct might
countenance that unrighteous gain of oppression.

He was several times concerned in the weighty service of visiting the
families of Friends in divers Monthly Meetings in our quarter, and his
labors in this service were also extended to Friends out of the verge of
it, and we believe were to the help and edification of those he visited.

In the year 1784, with the concurrence of Friends, he attended the Yearly
Meeting on Long Island, and by an endorsment on his certificate, it appears
that his company and services there, were acceptable. With the unity of
his Monthly and Quarterly Meetings he proceeded in the seventh month, on
a visit to Friends in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and parts adjacent. And
after visiting the Meetings on Long Island, New York and several parts
of New Jersey, and several Meetings in Pennsylvania, to the satisfaction
of friends, as appears by their certificates, it pleased the Lord to put
a period to his labors; for about the time he went into Pennsylvania, which
was about the latter part of the eighth month, he was taken ill of a fever,
yet he continued in the service of his religious visit, until the 4th of
the 9th month following, when his disorder had so increased as to render
him unable any longer to proceed in that service, and continuing to increase
upon him, proved the means of his dissolution.

He died at the house our friend Thomas Smith, in Buckingham, in the
county of Bucks, the 27th of 9th month, 1784, and was interred on the 28th
of the same, in Friend's burying ground at that place, as it appears from
testimony directed to this meeting from Friends at their quarterly meeting
held at Middletown, in Bucks county, Pennsylvania, the 30th of 11th month,
1786.

By which testimony it also appears that in the first part of his illness,
after he was confined, he labored under deep exercise, accompanied with
increasing bodily infirmity, but was favored to endure this trying dispensation
with patience and resignation, which was, as appeared by his frequent expressions
relating thereto, what he fervently desired. And although in some stages
of his disorder it appeared much to effect his intellectual faculties,
yet he was preserved in an innocent state of mind; saying to a friend at
a time of an intermission of the fever that he felt the good presence of
his Maker, which to him was comfortable.

He departed this life as one fallen to sleep. This is the work of righteousness
and peace, and the effect of righteousness, quietness and assurance forever.

Signed on behalf of the meeting aforesaid, held 29th of 5th month, 1787,
by

JOHN WILLIAMS,}
ALICE ALMY, } Clerks.

Extract from Testimony of Rhode-Island Quarterly Meeting, concerning
the same.

A fresh sense of his zeal, care, circumspection and usefulness in this
meeting, the image and superscription which truth had impressed on his
countenance, as well as the lively exercise under which he wa frequently
favored, both in meeting for worship and discipline, to the comfort and
satisfaction of the living body, we hope will long remain in our remembrance
for our encouragement and perseverance in the line of divine appointment
for the honor of that precious truth with which he was so eminently adorned.

Signed in and on behalf of our Quarterly Meeting of Friends, held at
East-Greenwich, the 9th and 10th of 4th month, 1789, by

Dorcas Peckham, daughter of Paul and Rachel Gardner, was born at Nantucket,
in the State of Massachusetts, on the 8th of 6th month, 1767, of religious
parents, and being early instructed in the way of self-denial, her mind
became impressed with the necessity of dedication of heart to her dear
Lord and Master, and to render him the first fruits of the increase.

But He who condescended thus to visit her, and make known from time
to time the manifestations of his holy will, suffered her to pass through
various and severe conflicts, which tended to the further refinement of
her mind.

Apprehending if she was faithful to the pointings of truth, it would
be her lot to speak to others of the loving kindness and tender dealings
of the Most High with her, she was deeply humbled under the prospect. But
He who brought Israel through Jordan, was not unmindful of her tried state,
and enabled her to bow in resignation to his blessed requirings. She appeared
in the ministry about the 31st year of her age, to the satisfaction of
friends, and her own peace. After she was recommended in 1801, she visited
many meetings in the New-England States, likewise New-York, Virginia, North-Carolina
and Tennesee, and more than once was engaged in family visits among friends
of her native Island.

She married about the 49th year of her age William Peckham, a member
of South-Kingstown Monthly Meeting, and removed to his residence, where
she became a valuable and useful member, being diligent in the attendance
of meetings, and a faithful laborer for the promotion of good among us;
and in Gospel love she visited the families of this and Greenwich Monthly
meeting to the satisfaction and comfort of many.

Her health gradually declined for several years previous to her dissolution,
during which time she was often deprived of the privilege of attending
meetings. While thus confined to her house she remarked, that being now
prevented from assembling with her friends, the reflection was pleasant
that she had always attended meetings when her health would admit. "For,"
she said, "be assured that if we grow neglectful in the attendance of our
religious meetings both for worship and discipline, lukewarmness and weakness
will ensue."

Many times after recovering from those trying ill turns to which she
was subject, she would say; "I know not why I am continued in mutability,
my sufferings are so great," and pausing, would further remark, "I believe
it is to answer some good end, and if rightly improved, may serve to do
away the dross, tin, and reprobate silver that may remain, and finally
prepare me for that Heavenly Kingdom into which nothing that is impure
can enter; but this will be by the sure mercies of my Redeemer, and not
from any merit of my own."

On the evening of the 13th of 4th month, 1831, reviving from a period
of great suffering, she gave directions concerning some matters that had
been on her mind, observing that it would make no difference about her
stay in this world, but that she was no easy; and then expressed herself
to those around her in this wise: "My dear children, you have always felt
very near to me; we have spent many pleasant hours together, but none ever
seemed more so than the present, and my desire for your, my children, is
that you may be found faithful to manifest duty; let obedience keep pace
with knowledge, although discouragements may prevail, though it is indeed
a sifting time to many, and their faith tried as to an hair's breadth on
account of their weakness, and the many deviations and devastations in
our highly favored Society, yet to those who remain faithful, and continue
to keep their ranks in righteousness, their afflictions will work for them
a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, a treasure in the Heavens
that fadeth not away. Zion will yet arise and shake herself from the dust
of the earth, and put on her beautiful garments and become a praise in
the earth."

Her disposition was cheerful and instructive, it being refined by the
operation of the ever blessed truth. She was an example of humility, piety
and patience, and often craved the latter might be her portion to the end
which seemed mercifully granted. Nearly her last expressions were, "I have
nothing to boast of, I continue to trust in the merits of my Redeemer,
and feel nothing in my way."

She was seized the following morning with a paralytic fit, which derprived
her of the use of one side, and almost of articulation; on the 15th, she
had another shock, which she survived until the following evening, when
she quietly passed away like one falling into a sweet sleep, on the 16th
of 4th month, 1831. Her remains were interred on the 17th, after a solemn
meeting of Friends and others on the occasion.

Thus closed the life of one, who through the adorable goodness and tender
mercies of God in Christ Jesus, has, we doubt not, become an heir of eternal
salvation.

Signed on behalf, and by direction os South-Kingstown Monthly Meeting,
held at Western, the 23rd of 4th month, 1832, by

The recent death of our beloved friend, Samuel Thurston, being sensibly
felt to be a loss to this part of the Militant Church, we feel engaged
to furnish a short testimony concerning his exemplary life and zealous
labors for the promotion of truth and righteousness amongst us, and to
encourage survivors to follow him as he followed Christ.

He was born in Newport, Rhode Island, the 4th of 6th month, 1731. His
parents, John and Elizabeth Thurston, were professors in the Church of
England, in which persuasion he was strictly educated, and from accounts
which some of us have heard him relate, with respect to his religious exercises
in his youthful days, we have no doubt of the sincerity of his heart in
the mode of worship which, at that period of his life, he was in the observance
of; but not continuing to find peace of mind therein, he occasionally visited
several different places of worship, until the removal of his parents to
Portsmouth, when he became a diligent attender of Friends' meetings; and
under the visitation of divine love, with which he was favored, he became
fully convinced that it was right to adhere to the simple mode of worship
practised by us; and notwithstanding our meetings were frequently held
in silence, yet he has humbly acknowledged, as some of us can testify,
that he often experienced them to be seasons of refreshment and enlargement
in religious understanding, and particularly those held in the middle of
the week had been blessed to him.

He had not long attended those meetings, before he found it to be a
part of his religious duty to adopt the plain Scripture language; and though
much in the cross, to begin with using it first to his parents, who were
opposed to his new views of religion. They, however, treated him with affection,
and gradually became reconciled, from a better understanding of the reason
of his change.

Thus continuing faithful to the requisitions of duty, as manifested
in the secret of his soul, he, in the year 1782, sought admission into
and was united in religious fellowship with the society of Friends. And
while thus reviewing his religious progress, and in a renewed sense of
his usefulness to the church, we can feelingly testify that he adorned
the doctrine he professed. In our meetings for worship, he gave evidence
by his solid and reverent deportment, of the weightiness of his spirit
and of his just views of the nature of spiritual worship.

In his subsequent labors, both in the station of an elder and overseer,
he was zealous and skilful, manifesting a lively concern for the preservation
of right order in the administration of discipline; in the support whereof
he was active and firm, and often successful in restoring those with whom
he was engaged to labor.

He was pleasant, and often very interested in conversation, kind and
liberal to the poor, hospitable to strangers and a good example of plainness
in habit, manners, and in the furniture of his house.

Thus he continued a faithful standard bearer, retaining even in advanced
age a freshness of feeling, and great religious sensibility, evincing to
those associated with him in labor that "they who abide in the vine, have
their fruit unto holiness and their end everlasting life."

He attended our Monthly Meeting 30th of 12th month, 1824, being nearly
in usual health, and in the evening of that day was taken ill. His situation
was not such as to induce an apprehension that he would speedily be removed,
but his complaint soon assumed a more formidable aspect and baffled medical
skill, depriving him of the use of his mental faculties. While these remained
he manifested his continued care and concern for the Society of which he
was a member, and desire for its preservation.

He lived until the 8th month, 1825, when it please our Heavenly Father
to release him from further sufferings and we are thankful in believing
that our loss is his exceeding gain. For "blessed is the man to whom the
Lord imputeth not iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no guile."

On the 10th his remains were carried to Friend's meeting house at Portsmouth,
and after a large and solemn meeting, held on the occasion, were interred
in our burying ground at that place.

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